Engine:
* Internal combustion: Benz's car had a single-cylinder, four-stroke internal combustion engine. This means that the engine used the burning of gasoline to create energy.
* Four strokes: The engine went through four distinct cycles to create power:
* Intake: Air was drawn into the cylinder.
* Compression: The air was compressed by a piston.
* Combustion: A spark ignited the compressed air-gasoline mixture, causing an explosion.
* Exhaust: The burnt gases were expelled from the cylinder.
* Transmission: The engine was connected to the rear wheels through a simple chain drive system.
Fuel system:
* Carburetor: A carburetor mixed the air and gasoline, creating a combustible mixture.
* Fuel tank: A small tank held the gasoline supply.
Other key components:
* Steering: Steering was accomplished with a tiller bar, similar to a boat.
* Brakes: Brakes were rudimentary, working on the rear wheels only.
* Frame: A wooden frame supported the engine, wheels, and other components.
Operation:
1. Start: The engine had to be manually started by cranking the crankshaft.
2. Driving: The driver would manipulate the tiller bar to steer, and the engine's power would be transmitted to the rear wheels via the chain drive.
3. Stopping: The rudimentary brakes would be applied by the driver.
Limitations:
* Power: The engine was very low-powered, making the car slow and unable to travel far on a single tank of fuel.
* Comfort: The ride was rough and bumpy, and the car lacked many amenities that we consider essential today.
* Reliability: The car was not very reliable, and frequent repairs were often necessary.
Evolution:
Benz's invention was the first step in a long line of advancements in automobile technology. Over the years, the gasoline engine became more powerful, efficient, and reliable. Improvements in transmission, steering, braking, and other components led to the modern car we know today.
